Menu

Durham

“I have a personal theory that everything you need to know about life you can learn from working with clay.” – Liz Aldag, The LuLu Bird Pottery

A couple of weeks ago, I saw this pottery and haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since. I grew up near a huge pottery mecca in Seagrove, North Carolina and many Saturday mornings were spent helping my mom pick out gifts from the local stores. Pottery always seemed outdated until recently when I spotted The LuLu Bird Pottery.

The artist, Liz Aldag, is based out of Durham. I love everything about her collection collection- the colors, the shapes, the sizes, and the variety of pieces. I also love how functional each piece is. The cloud bowl would be perfect for serving up popcorn and the mugs below make me crave a cup of hot chocolate.

Mr. Goodboth set up camp outside of the Rock and Shop Market this weekend to snap photos and I’m so glad they did. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be able to give you these rare photos of me in a sombrero.

I also loved the market enough to go twice- in the morning and the afternoon, hence the different outfits. I was trying to look edgy in that first picture, which came across slightly different than imagined.

Tomorrow is one of my favorite days of the year: Durham Rock and Shop Day! I’ve only been once but it left a lasting impression. Think about walking into a room filled with all your favorite stuff and the artists/designers who made it. That’s what Rock and Shop is! It’s an Etsy-lover’s dream come true. Not that I needed another reason to fall in love with Durham, but Rock and Shop seals the deal.

First up, Jordan Grace Owens. I’ve regretted not buying this poster for the past year. I can’t wait to pick one up tomorrow. She handprints each one to give a personalized look. Beyond posters, she also sells the cutest paper dolls and illustrations that are A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E.

Next, This Paper Ship. This Paper Ship is composed of a talented couple in Saxapahaw, NC who specialize in lettering and design. They’re the geniuses behind the design of Yellow Dog Bread Co. in Raleigh. (If you haven’t been there, btw, go. NOW!) I’m looking forward to checking out prints and letterpress items from this shop!

And up last, Near Modern Disaster. Last year, the designer, Samantha, behind Near Modern Disaster and I had a detailed conversation about lilac jeans. The verdict: we’re both fans. I’m also a fan of hilarity of this shop! I bought a friend this card for a friend and I still can’t stop raving about it. I also bought this print for myself. I think the cards below will be my next purchase. Because I can’t resist deer or bowties, especially when they’re put together. Check out this shop for cards, illustrations, and general radness.

The perfect Monday pick-me-up is a book that lists things you’re (probably) very good at doing. I spent 20 minutes flipping through You Are Good at Things: A Checklist earlier today and can’t quit thinking about all the underappreciated things I can do!

I’d like to add bargain hunting, Netflix binging, drinking iced coffee and daydreaming to the list. I’m definitely a pro at all those! Give yourself some credit, you’re good at a lot of things. You can buy this book online, or if you’re in Durham/Raleigh, Parker and Otis has a few in stock!